84 Caravan Timing belt Q

Hey guys...does an 84 dodge caravan -w- a 4 cyl mitsubishi engine have
a timing belt or chain/ More to the point...if it slips or breaks am I
automatically screwed or is there a chance that the engine could escape
w/o damage. It always ran rough and would sometimes cut out -w- a hard
start but recently just pooped out on the highway, backfired once and
wouldn't start. It seems like it's turning over pretty normally as far
as I can tell. Mechanic hasn't said it's the timing belt yet but that's
what I'm hearing from a few friends. In the shop right now, just
wondering what I can likely expect. Thanks

 

Post the engine. I didn't think there were any Mitsubishi made 4 cylinder
Chryslers, just the 6 cylinder 3.0L and I didn't think that was around in
1984.

 

The optional larger engine in the K-cars and minivans was the 2.6 litre
Mitsubishi "Astron" engine. Piece of garbage. Replaced in 1987 by the
Chrysler-built 2.5.

 

The 4-cyl Mitz engine is the 2.6L, which is what I have on my 85
Voyager and 86 Caravan, RIP. It has a timing chain. The timing chain
guides will eventually self-destruct, making the chain slap around.
But I do not recall if the chain fails, whether or not the valves will
pound into the piston tops. A quick call to the dealer parts or
service dept should verify what happens if the chain skips or breaks.
Those engines tend to run a bit rough anyway, because of the carb.
Either it runs much too rich with very high idle, or at low idle it
does not fast enough to run smooth.
Repair cost will likely exceed market value of vehicle. Start keeping
your eyes open for a similar model. My 86 wet the bed, and I
eventually found an 85 that runs pretty good for less than $500.
Good luck.
Bob
85 Voyager 200k miles, 50K miles on motor

 

2.6 (as I had in my 87 Caravan) is a non-interference engine so should not
make contact is chain breaks (as mine did).
Should be able to replace chain, guides and go. May as well do oil pump
while there as it assists the tensioner/guides.